Couples perception regarding how lifestyle might affect fertility: results of a pilot study

Abstract

Background: There is evidence that lifestyle behaviours can adversely affect general health and reproductive performance. Despite this evidence a substantial proportion of the Australian population continue to ignore the importance of a ‘healthy lifestyle’.

Aim: This study aimed to examine the perceptions of infertile couples regarding the effect lifestyle might have on general and reproductive health.

Methods: Twenty new patients from an Adelaide fertility clinic were interviewed and asked a series of structured questions about their own lifestyle and whether they thought that various lifestyle factors might affect the chance of conceiving and a healthy pregnancy. They were also asked to rate the possible effect of other factors on the chance of conception, using a 10‑point likert scale.

Results: Most couples thought smoking and being over or underweight would adversely affect the chance of conceiving and a healthy pregnancy. Couples also perceived that taking recreational drugs and psychological stress would adversely affect the chance of conception, but were not as convinced about the effects of other lifestyle factors such as alcohol and caffeine consumption. Although most were taking some type of over the counter supplement, only half of the females were taking folic acid. The majority of participants wanted to make changes to their lifestyle and common barriers included, insufficient time, difficulties in finding an enjoyable exercise and lack of motivation.

Conclusion: This study has highlighted that infertile couples are generally aware of the potential impact of some lifestyle behaviours on fertility. However, only half of the obese women in this sample considered their weight to be a risk factor to their own fertility and while most were taking over the counter supplements, half the females were not taking folic acid. There remains an obvious need to research and develop effective means of assisting couples to make ‘healthier choices’ that will improve their general health and well being and chances of conceiving and delivering a healthy child.